With UFC 81: "Breaking Point" in the rear view mirror, we can now set our sights on the next major pay-per-view (PPV) event, UFC 82: "Pride of a Champion," from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, on March 1.
The star-studded card is packed with talent from the bottom up, featuring the 185-pound showdown between UFC Middleweight Champion, Anderson Silva, and the last man to hold the Pride FC 183-pound belt, Dan Henderson.
Here's the complete confirmed line up:
Main Event:
UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva (20-4) vs. Dan Henderson (22-6)
Main card (televised):
265 lbs.: Cheick Kongo (11-3-1) vs. Heath Herring (27-13)
185 lbs.: Evan Tanner (32-6) vs. Yushin Okami (21-4)
170 lbs.: Jon Fitch (15-2) vs. Chris Wilson (13-3)
170 lbs.: Diego Sanchez (17-2) vs. David Bielkheden (12-5)Under card (may not be broadcast):
265 lbs.: Andrei Arlovski (11-5) vs. Jake O'Brien (10-0)
170 lbs.: Luke Cummo (6-4) vs. Luigi Fioravanti (11-3)
170 lbs.: Josh Koscheck (9-2) vs. Dustin Hazelett (10-3)
155 lbs.: Jorge Gurgel (11-3) vs. John Halverson (16-5)
Of course, the major issue with this is that Arlovski -- a former heavyweight champion who helped put the organization on the map -- is competing in a non-televised preliminary bout.
The primary reason behind the decision is that this is the last fight for "The Pitbull" on his contract and there is no indication that the two sides are close to inking an extension. In fact, Arlovski has been on the "sidelines" since he defeated Fabricio Werdum via unanimous decision back in April 2007.
There's a good possibility the pre-recorded match up can still make the telecast; however, it is no sure thing ... especially if he wins.
In addition, a rumored tilt between middleweights Alessio Sakara (12-6) and Chris Leben (17-4) is still floating around, but it has not been confirmed for the Ohio show. That could change soon, it may be moved to another card or perhaps it was nothing more than just a rumor.
Stay tuned.
"Pride of a Champion" is clearly the biggest event of 2008 for the UFC, similar to UFC 68: "The Uprising" back in March 2007. It's certainly a must-see show, showcasing some great fighters and fights that will have major implications in the welterweight, middleweight and heavyweight divisions going forward.
For UFC 82 ticket details click here. And for all other UFC 82-related information click here.
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